ASR Basis Exclusive or Einstein The TT's Choice

I haven't compared the Einstein against the ASR, but it has stood up to other competition here. Dead quiet, dynamic, great weight and image density, very musical and harmonically fleshed out. Einstein has been around in Germany for at least 15 years, distributed in the US for two years or so. Fremer's review was in the July issue. Disclaimer - I am an Einstein dealer.
Brian

The Einstein phono stage, available in either single ended or balanced version, has two pairs of input connectors, one pair of which are used for plugging in the load resistors. Four pairs of load resistors are provided: 40, 85, 150, and 300 ohms, fitted with either RCA or XLR connectors depending on which model. One pair of outputs is provided.

Brian

Rich, let's just say all the other Einstein components are tube based, while the phono stage isn't. I would put it up against *any* phono stage, tube or solid state, regardless of price.

Brian

I have the balanced version of the Einstein phono stage, while others I know have the single ended version. I haven't heard them side by side, although Sabertouch's description of the differences is in line with what I have been told. The dual power supplies of the balanced version help, as it is two completely separate mono phono stages, and yes, keeping the power supplies as far away from the units as possible reduces hum and noise. The stock power cords are pretty good, which may come as a surprise to some. That said, the unit does benefit from some aftermarket cords, although they are not compulsory.